Shore Buses director raises concern on student vandalism
Shore Buses Limited director Aman Singh has called for action after some students vandalised his bus on Wednesday afternoon. The bus was on its way to Kalekana in Lami.
This is not the first time the company buses have been vandalised and Singh hopes that those deliberately destroying or damaging their buses would be apprehended.
“The driver was dropping-off students when this happened. This is not the first time. This time one of our new buses was vandalised,” Mr Singh said.
“We refurbished this bus three months ago at a cost of $11,500 and now students are vandalising it with no care in the world.
“Parents and teachers should talk to their students. The bus is provided and why would you damage the bus? They use razor blades and sharp objects to tear the seat covers. They even write vulgar words on the walls of the bus.”
The company will have to repair and clean all the damage which will cost $5000 and it has to be done today (yesterday) so that the bus can be on the road again.
Mr Singh said he hoped that these children were taught not to resort to such acts of vandalism.
“When they want new buses we bring it to them and this is what they do. We are not making much, especially with the increase of fuel price,” he said.
Bus driver Anil Prasad claimed students were smoking in the bus.
“They ring the bell five or six times and when they get off I tell them not to do it. They turn back and swear at me,” Mr Prasad said.
“I have complained to the Police and I hope something is done about it. I leave the Suva Bus Stand at 4.15pm and despite numerous reminders students never listen.”
Shore Buses Ltd has pleaded with people living around Lami that the company will always provide good service and for them to look after the buses properly.
Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that the driver called the station and asked for assistance.
“Officers have advised him that if the incident occurs again, to drive directly to the station. This was agreed to by the driver and he did not want to lodge an official report,” Ms Naisoro said.